A new study has found that a quarter of pregnant women suffer from mental health problems.

Researchers at King’s College London recruited 545 pregnant women attending their antenatal appointment in south-east London, between November 2014 and June 2016.

Midwives asked the women two questions about their mood, and found that one in four women had mental health issues during pregnancy.

15% of those surveyed suffered from anxiety, with depression found in 11% and 2% suffering from eating and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

However, many women had a combination of issues.

Researchers believe the signs of mental health issues are often missed as it’s assumed that women feel wonderful while pregnant.

‘People think that pregnancy is protective of mental health, and then the post-natal period is a trigger for problems,’ said researcher Professor Louise Howard, of the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King’s.

‘But in reality problems start during pregnancy or even earlier – it's very common.’

Kate, midwifery manager of Tommy's, the largest charity funding research into the causes of miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth, added:

'This study has shown just how common mental health problems are during pregnancy, and these concerns should be taken just as seriously as any physical concerns.

‘Early detection and intervention is crucial to ensure that necessary and sufficient support can be put in to place to help pregnant women and their families.

‘It is crucial that every woman is given the opportunity to talk about their mental health in a non-judgemental and safe space throughout their pregnancy.'